Practitioner-recommended policies and procedures for children exposed to domestic violence

Children exposed to domestic violence experience higher rates of psychosocial, behavioral, and physical problems. Current policy recommendations are that health care providers offer regular screening and treatment for childhood exposure to domestic violence (CEDV). However, screening recommendations have been slow to take hold. The purpose of this study was to identify recommended practices of CEDV, as reported by practitioners. Interviews were held with 24 experienced service providers from 14 agencies. Respondents provided practical suggestions for CEDV screening and intervention. Suggestions included refinement of screening tools for maximum validity and reliability, improved integration of DV education into medical training and practice, on-site DV resources in pediatric settings, and establishment of formal partnerships between human service organizations that promoted ongoing collaborative activities. Next steps are to evaluate outcomes for evidence-based practice.